If you’ve ever been in a courtroom, or watched any of the dramas on television, you know that when a judge is about to enter the room the bailiff will say, “All rise, the Honorable Judge (name) presiding.” It is protocol that we rise at the announcement of the judge’s name, or when a King or President or other “important person” enters a room, to show respect for that person and their authority.

There’s a sense of this feeling when we worship, but on an even deeper, more powerful and worthy level. It’s as if the bailiff is issuing this call to worship, as we invite the presence of the Lord into the room with us:

All, all arise

At the name

Of our Savior

Who is worthy

You are worthy

All arise because we believe He is there.

All arise to say, “Lord, I’m in awe of you!”

All arise because of His authority.

All arise because He is worthy.

All arise because there is power at the sound of His name.

There is only One Who is truly worthy of this kind of adoration. There is only One Whose majesty is unending. There is only One, the King of Kings, never failing. There is only One, One love alone that overwhelms the grave. And that’s worth getting on our feet for!

“Let the whole world fear the Lord, and let everyone stand in awe of him.” Psalm 33:8

ALL ARISE is featured on Michael W. Smith’s new album, SOVEREIGN. Get your copy wherever you purchase / consume music.